Switzerland’s Michael Albasini (Orica-GreenEdge) is alleged to have called Frenchman Kévin Reza (Europcar) a “dirty negro” during Tuesday’s Tour de France stage to Bagnères-de-Luchon, according to Europcar General Manager Jean-René Bernaudeau.

The two cyclists were met about the issue ahead of Wednesday’s stage to Pla d’Adet, but Albasini denied that he had made the comment. Tour organiser ASO also met with Reza to discuss the matter.

“I do not tolerate racism,” Bernaudeau told France’s Sud Ouest website. “After doping, it is the other scourge of the sport. I saw Kévin very upset after the stage.”

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